Start Building A Den And Using Adaptil Early October

It is estimated that approximately 45 % of dogs become stressed and fearful while fireworks are going off, yet many owners are unaware of how to help their dogs with firework fears and the precautions that can be taken to help them cope with their fear of loud noises.

Dogs

Dogs should have a safe haven or den to retreat to in the home; an area that they feel secure in. The den can be a place that the dog already uses and adapted to be as comfortable, dark and quiet as possible, or a man-made temporary option such as a cardboard box or crate. Preparing a den in advance allows the dog to get used to the area and accept it as a safe place. A towel or blanket can be placed over the den to dim the sounds and lights of the fireworks. The dog should have access to the den at all times.

The dog appeasing pheromone Adaptil® has been shown to reduce anxiety and help dogs cope with challenging situations, including firework events. Adaptil is easy to use and it is available as a diffuser, collar and spray. It reduces the intensity of the dog’s fear response and using an Adaptil diffuser or collar from October can help to combat any anxiety build up the dog experiences in the run up to the fireworks event.

Further tips for dog owners

Ensure dogs are taken out for a walk/to the toilet before it gets dark to avoid the need to be taken out later during the fireworks

Soothing or punishing the dog may increase the intensity of the experience or reward inappropriate behaviour. Instead consider distracting them with a chew, toy, puzzle feeder or a game.

Having a meal before the fireworks start can also help as a dog may not want to eat during the event if they are too anxious

Ensure the dog has access to their water bowl as anxious dogs can pant more

Keep curtains closed, have the TV or music on and keep the dog company

Dogs with a more severe reaction to noises should be taken to the vet, as it may be that they need medication in order to cope with the firework season

Be aware that older dogs may find fireworks more challenging than they have before, as they can start to find changes to routine difficult. Alternatively, those dogs which start to develop hearing loss as they age can find fireworks easier to cope with.

Using Adaptil spray on the dog’s bedding can offer additional support during stressful events.

SPRING is the ideal time to start a noise desensitisation programme with your dog.

Sounds scary is a three step behavioural therapy programme that has been specifically developed to help ellivate the fear of loud noises that dogs experience. Whether your dog is scared by fireworks, gunshots, thunder, hail or rain this CD will help you train your dog to cope with these unfamiliar sounds.

Sounds scary has been developed by Jon Bowen and Sarah Heath two internationally renowned veterinary experts on animal behaviour. Sarah and Jon originated the idea of using specially made sound recordings in combination with Dog Appeasing Pheromone (Adaptil) as a treatment for sound phobias in dogs.